Noah Sinclair
Getting a pedicure is a great way to pamper yourself and get your feet and toenails looking and feeling great. While the focus is often on the nail painting, an important part of the process is toenail cutting and shaping. Cutting toenails is not as straightforward as it seems and should be done properly to avoid issues like ingrown toenails. So, when getting a pedicure, it is best to let the professionals cut your nails, as they will have the right tools and knowledge to do it correctly.
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What You'll Learn
Don't cut nails beforehand
Don't cut your nails beforehand. This is the advice of professionals, who explain that it doesn't take them long to do it properly. When non-professionals cut their nails, they often trim the sides and go too far in, which can lead to ingrown nails, a common and painful issue. Ingrown nails can be avoided by cutting straight across and not rounding the nails.
If you do decide to cut your nails at home, it's important to use the correct tools. Use a nail clipper or nail scissors for your fingernails and a toenail clipper for your toenails. Remember to disinfect your tools regularly.
It's also important to be aware of your cuticles. Cuticles should not be cut as they protect your nails against infections and bacteria. When you cut cuticles, you increase the chance of infection. Instead, gently remove them with an orange stick.
It's best to cut your nails after taking a bath or shower, as this is when they are softest. If this isn't possible, soak your nails in lukewarm water for a few minutes.
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Cut nails straight across
A pedicure is a cosmetic treatment for the feet and toenails. It often involves cutting and shaping the nails, and it is recommended that you do not cut your nails before going for a pedicure. Cutting your nails straight across is the best way to avoid ingrown toenails. This is a common problem, and it can be very painful. Cutting nails straight across means not rounding the corners, so that the nail does not grow into the skin. This is especially important for the big toenails, as they are most susceptible to growing into the skin.
The proper way to trim your toenails is to cut straight across, leaving a slight overhang on the sides. This is because, if you cut nails too close to the skin, it can lead to ingrown nails. This is a common problem, and it can be very painful. It can also lead to infections and may require surgery to correct. Cutting nails straight across is a simple way to avoid this issue.
Some people recommend cutting a 'V' into the centre of the nail. As the nail grows back, it will grow towards the middle, correcting the shape. However, this is a myth and can cause more problems. It is always best to cut straight across, and not too close to the skin.
It is easier to cut your nails after a shower or bath, as the nail tissue is softer. However, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly first, to avoid slipping with the clippers. It is also important not to force the issue. If your nails are too soft, they may tear, so it is better to wait until they are slightly harder.
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Don't round nails
When getting a pedicure, it is best not to round your nails. While round nails can be comfortable as they typically have no corners, or the corners can be tucked behind, they are difficult to shape uniformly across all ten fingers.
Rounding nails requires first cutting them straight across with a nail clipper and then filing them evenly straight. Then, a file is used to shape the corners, which are usually left behind in professional nail salons as they tend to look better. However, if you want to get rid of the corners, you can gently glide the file around them.
It is important to note that filing nails incorrectly can lead to jagged, frayed nails and even nail bed or cuticle damage. Therefore, it is recommended to file from the outer corner into the center of the nail and repeat on the other side, rather than using a back-and-forth sawing motion. This is especially important for short nails, as they can become too short and painful if filed too much.
Additionally, when filing short nails, it is crucial to use a sturdy board file rather than an emery board, as the latter is too soft and flimsy for shaping. The board file should be used to do most of the work, and the emery board can be used gently as the final step to seal the natural nails and prevent splitting.
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Don't cut cuticles
While pedicures often involve cutting nails, it is generally advised not to cut the cuticles. Cuticles are a thin sliver of skin at the bottom of your nail bed, and they serve as the "first line of defense" for the nail plate, the nail matrix, and the nail fold. They protect the new nail from bacterial and fungal infections as they grow out from the nail root.
Cutting the cuticles can open up your nails to various infections. Dr. Joel Schlessinger, a dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon, states that cutting the cuticles does not benefit the nail in any way and is harmful. He further adds that cutting the cuticles leaves the nail unprotected from bacteria and fungus, leading to infections and damage to the nail. Dr. Corey L. Hartman echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that cutting the cuticles can allow dirt and bacteria to enter the nail bed, causing skin disorders that may require prescription management or even surgical procedures.
Instead of cutting the cuticles, it is recommended to push them back gently. This can be done by applying a cuticle remover, using an orange stick with a cotton-wrapped tip, or simply by pushing them back with a towel after taking a shower or soaking your hands in warm water. By regularly pushing back and exfoliating the cuticles, you can maintain healthy cuticles and nails while minimizing the risk of infection.
Additionally, it is worth noting that many nail salons do not properly sterilize their tools, which further increases the risk of infection if you choose to cut your cuticles. Therefore, it is always best to inform your nail technician not to cut your cuticles and to focus on proper cuticle care instead.
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Moisturise nails
A pedicure can be a great way to get your feet and toenails pampered. It involves getting your nails trimmed, coloured, and shaped. While pedicures are a great way to maintain your toenail health, it is also important to take care of your nails at home. Moisturising your nails is an important step in maintaining their health and can help prevent dryness, peeling, and chipping.
There are several ways to moisturise your nails and keep them healthy. One way is to use cuticle oil, which helps to keep the layers of keratin bonded together and prevents peeling. Jojoba-based cuticle oils are particularly effective as their molecules are similar to sebum and can easily penetrate the nail plate. You can also use hand cream to moisturise your nails and prevent dryness.
Additionally, it is important to protect your nails from water exposure, as water can weaken the bonds of the nail's structure and make them prone to breakage. To prevent this, it is recommended to wear gloves when washing dishes or performing other activities that involve water. Applying moisturiser immediately after your nails are exposed to water can also help prevent dryness and maintain nail health.
Exfoliation is another important step in nail care. Just like the skin on your body, nail cells can become separated and peel, so exfoliating can help remove dead cells and promote nail health. By incorporating these steps into your nail care routine, you can achieve and maintain healthy, moisturised nails.
- Avoid trimming your nails before a pedicure. Professionals are skilled in properly trimming nails to prevent ingrown nails, which can be painful.
- If you trim your nails at home, go straight across and avoid rounding them.
- Wear nail polish as a protective layer to prevent nail damage.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, nail cutting or trimming is part of a pedicure.
It is recommended not to cut your nails before a pedicure. However, if you do, cut straight across the nail to reduce the risk of ingrown toenails.
Professionals will cut your nails properly to prevent ingrown nails. They use specific tools for toenails, such as toenail clippers, and disinfect them regularly.
